Lemon custard | Fresh mint | Anise | Key lime | Sandalwood

Golden Raisin | Marmalade | Cantaloupe | Butter | Rye spice

White pepper | Baking spices | Oak | Quick drop-off of flavor

Widow Jane says with the release of Paradigm Rye they set out to “challenge long-held perceptions of rye whiskey for flavor profile and complexity.” It’s not a foolhardy endeavor, as many bourbon drinkers both new and experienced have preconceived notions of what rye whiskey tastes like. Time and time again, we hear people state they don’t drink rye because it's overly hot and spicy, and lacks sweetness and complexity. Of course that’s not all true, as rye can be just as varied as bourbon, so can Widow Jane Paradigm Rye be the shepherd leading a new generation of drinkers to rye?

The nose starts the sip off in a good spot, offering unique scents not typically found in rye and offering them in a very approachable way. Likewise, the palate offers fruity sweetness in a very controlled manner and I bet many will find its flavors quite surprising. The finish isn’t too far outside of a rye’s classic style finish, with pepper, spice, and oak tasting instantly familiar.

Window Jane crafted Paradigm Rye with a goal in mind and I think they were successful in accomplishing it. This rye is approachable at 93 proof, offers a good blend of tempered fruity sweetness against a soft spicy finish, and some of its unique flavors may shock even seasoned rye drinkers. For those rye drinkers, Paradigm Rye may come across as a bit too easygoing, as it lacks punch (which is by design, of course). Its finish also has a sharp drop-off in flavor that new rye drinkers may appreciate, but others may find flawed. It’s always going to be difficult to satisfy rye drinkers on opposite ends of the spectrum with a single release, but Paradigm Rye offers just enough common middle ground that makes it a solid purchase at its reasonable asking price.